A Spotlight on VMBA
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🏔️ Supporting the Stewards of the Green Mountain State: The Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA)
Behind every iconic flow trail, technical rock garden, and scenic ridgeline in Vermont is a massive, coordinated effort that often goes unseen. At the heart of this effort is the Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA). This statewide nonprofit has become the gold standard for trail advocacy and community building in North America.
VMBA | Jeb Wallace-Brodeur (@jebphoto)
A Unique Model: The Power of 28 Chapters
What makes VMBA truly remarkable is its "unified" structure. It isn't just one central office; it is a collective of 28 local Chapters. This model ensures that while there is a strong statewide voice for advocacy and funding, the actual trail work is driven by the people who know the dirt best: the local riders.
These Chapters are responsible for over 1,000 miles of trails. On any given weekend, hundreds of volunteers are out with Pulaskis and shovels, performing the "stewardship" that keeps Vermont’s trail networks world-class. From the legendary terrain of the Northeast Kingdom to the hidden gems in the Green Mountain National Forest, VMBA’s presence is felt in every corner of the state.
More Than Just Dirt: Advocacy and Access
VMBA’s work extends far beyond the physical act of digging. A critical—and often most difficult—part of their mission involves:
Landowner Relations: Navigating the complex landscape of private and public land to ensure sustainable, long-term access for mountain bikers.
Statewide Advocacy: Working at a legislative level to protect outdoor recreation and promote the economic and mental health benefits of trail access.
Education: Teaching the next generation of riders about trail etiquette, environmental responsibility, and the "Leave No Trace" ethos.
VMBA | Jeb Wallace-Brodeur (@jebphoto)
The Impact of the Collective
The "Unified Membership" model means that when a rider joins VMBA, their support ripples across the entire state. It funds major trail projects, provides insurance for local chapters, and ensures that the trails we ride today will be there for future generations. It is a community-driven engine fueled by thousands of hours of donated time.
VMBA | Jeb Wallace-Brodeur (@jebphoto)
Our Small Part in the Push
At NoNormal, we have immense respect for the grit it takes to maintain 1,000 miles of trail. To show our appreciation for the volunteers who spend their Saturdays in the dirt rather than in the saddle, we’ve donated a supply of NoNormal Coffee to VMBA.
Our goal is simple: to provide a small, lightweight "fuel" for the trail crews deep in the woods. A quick bit of Swiss-made energy to keep the shovels moving and the spirits high during those long Dig Days.
How You Can Help
The best way to ensure the future of Vermont mountain biking is to become a part of the collective. Whether you are a local or a frequent visitor, your membership makes a measurable difference.
Discover the Mission: vmba.org/who-we-are
Join or Donate: vmba.org/join
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